Lemon Chicken Piccata

A tangy and buttery Italian classic perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.

Lemon Chicken Piccata is a simple yet sophisticated dish that combines tender chicken cutlets with a zesty lemon-butter sauce and briny capers. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

• For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Tools Needed

• Meat mallet or rolling pin (for flattening chicken)

• Large skillet

• Tongs or spatula

• Small mixing bowl

• Lemon juicer or squeezer

• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.

   • Mix flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

   • Simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in capers and butter, whisking until the sauce is smooth and glossy.

4. Combine and Serve:

   • Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for 2 minutes to warm the chicken and allow the flavors to meld.

   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pair this tangy Lemon Chicken Piccata with:

• Light pasta like linguine or angel hair tossed in olive oil and garlic.

• Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli.

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Enjoy this vibrant, zesty dish that will become a household favorite it it isn’t already.